Despite its size, Belize packs some serious adventure and is poised for the top of 2022 wish lists the world over. Its phenomenal range of experiences encompasses snorkelling along the second largest barrier reef in the world, diving the breath-taking Blue Hole and trekking up glorious ancient pyramids.
Geographically, Belize belongs to Central America, though it’s the only country there where English is the official language and Queen Elizabeth reigns as Head of State (so you’ll notice her familiar profile on their currency too). San Pedro on Ambergris Caye is the place to be, a small island at the southern end of the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System. LLM checks in to Alaia Belize, one of its newest luxury resorts.
Hotel
The 2021 Marriott Autograph Collection property is the local celebrity of hotels. Its image is plastered across the airport, the sunny streets, and of course, on San Pedro its towers are a hard-to-miss sight from all angles. The location is beachfront, directly on a pristine ribbon of Caribbean shoreline called Mar de Tumbo.
Inside, beach-chic intertwines with apartment luxe, with three restaurants, four bars, three pools (one of which is the country’s first-ever suspended rooftop pool and lounge with 360 views) and spa on-site. Alaia Belize echoes Belizean spirit, allowing guests to switch off and immerse themselves upon check-in.
Rooms/Suites
Accommodations range from studios to villa-style one, two and three-bedroom suites, each modern with the authentic essence of Belize. We checked in to an ocean view vista one bedroom suite, a striking 1,000 sq ft of apartment luxe. If you’re in search of a holiday home, this is the dream.
The en-suite master bedroom is a tropical cloud, separated away from common spaces so that a king-sized rest is undisturbed. HD smart TV, shower, bathroom and balcony all provide for a nocturnal hideaway. Not to mention fluffy cream robes, pamper products and mood lighting for added comfort.
In the day, get ready to venture out of the boudoir; wander along your private balcony overlooking the Caribbean Sea, sit down with some breakfast at your fully equipped kitchen, or catch up on the news in your stylish living room. Natural light, soothing turquoise, rustic stone and linen curtains, all create a truly blissful experience no matter what your in-room activity.
Food and drink
Alaia’s food and beverage program deliver fresh international cuisine with the essence of Ambergris Caye and San Pedro. Our favourite was Sea Salt, a breezy lobby-level restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. The menu is seasonal, and if you’re in town for lobster season then be sure to indulge.
Opposite the hotel, you’ll notice an urban farm, where many of the menu’s ingredients are sourced, including free-range organic poultry. The terrace bar is also a splash of cocktail fun when taking a dip in the pool. If cocktails aren’t your bag, then go Vietnamese coffee, a guaranteed kick.
To do
Alaia’s amenities and rich and diverse programming offerings come together to create one of the most interesting and unconventional hotels in the region; it’s the first true Four Diamond Resort on Ambergris Caye.
Speak to the Adventure Concierge about tours – you’ll definitely want to opt-in and make the most of these stunning surroundings. Snorkelling should be at the top of your list, and the team can organize a fabulous excursion to the beautiful Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Sharks Ray Alley, where bucket list items are made and checked. For the daring, go diving – an onsite Dive Centre is fully staffed with PADI-certified instructors and masters.
Guests are spoilt for choice with activities to partake in off-site. We recommend booking a flight with Tropic Air and seeing the Blue Hole, a giant marine sinkhole off the coast and an exhilarating ride for views of a lifetime. For something a little more low-key, how about some bird-watching? Belize is home to over 600 species, and with 66% of the country still forested, visitors can spot around 50 species in a single outing. So pack your binoculars and explore.
Getting there
International visitors will arrive at Belize International Airport. From there, take an easy 15-minute flight to San Pedro. At San Pedro airstrip, the hotel provides quick transfers to and from Alaia Belize.
Factbox
Address: Seagrape Drive, San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, Belize
Phone: 011 501 226 3100
Website: alaiabelize.com
Images courtesy of Alaia Belize and Chase Dorsett. Special thanks to Belize Tourism Board.
